FIFA hands harsh bans to Argentina players after World Cup final brawl

Buenos Aires: FIFA has imposed severe disciplinary sanctions on Argentina players, assistant coach Roberto Ayala and Spain midfielder Gavi following the ugly brawl that erupted after the 2026 World Cup final, according to a report by Reuters.

Leandro Paredes received the harshest punishment, with a 10-match suspension and a $90,000 fine for his role in the post-match confrontation. Nahuel Molina was handed a seven-match ban and the same fine. Ayala received a three-match suspension and a $30,000 fine, while Thiago Almada and Gavi were each suspended for one match and fined $30,000.

The punishment means Gavi will miss Spain’s UEFA Nations League meeting with England at Wembley on September 26. The bans will apply to the players’ subsequent international fixtures in accordance with FIFA’s disciplinary procedures.

The sanctions followed a chaotic end to the final, which Spain won 1-0 after Ferran Torres scored in extra time. Tensions had already risen after Argentina’s Enzo Fernández was sent off during the second half of extra time.

Immediately after the final whistle, Paredes shoved Gavi to the ground, triggering a wider melee. FIFA’s proceedings also involved Molina over incidents with Rodri and Ayala over an altercation with Dani Olmo. Almada was sanctioned for unsporting behaviour, while Gavi also received a one-match ban. Argentina coach Lionel Scaloni eventually intervened as the confrontation continued.

The Argentine Football Association (AFA) was also fined $321,000 for several disciplinary breaches during the tournament. FIFA ordered Argentina to play its next two home matches with attendance restricted to 50%, while part of the sanction was suspended, subject to a probationary period. The case included the display of a political banner after Argentina’s semi-final win over England, as well as discriminatory chants and gestures by supporters.